I went for a big weekend, but what happens at Butlin's stays at Butlin's
Grown men dressed as grannies, Louise Redknapp taking a tumble on stage and a drunken lap-dancing competition. These are just some of the strange yet hilarious memories from my first ever Butlin's Big Weekender.
Heading down to the Skegness resort, I had an idea of what to expect after reading my former colleague's review from a couple of years ago. I can now confirm that Adam was right - it was like stepping back in time to my university days, except everyone around me was older - but still just as eager to party.
We arrived on the Friday evening and the four-day event was already in full swing, with groups stumbling about in fancy dress and loud music pumping from the main tent. The Replays Weekender had a theme of 80s, 90s and beyond. There were some notable names performing, including So Sold Crew, Five, East 17, Artful Dodger and Louise Redknapp.
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However, it was actually the tribute acts that stole the show. The Take That act named Rule The World were brilliant on the first night. They were full of energy and had the crowd dancing and singing like they were at a sold-out stadium concert. The Queen tribute act the following night were as cheesy as you'd hope and played some real classics.
We didn't manage to catch many of the other performers but we did see former member of Eternal Louise Redknapp. Despite the collective "oooh" as she slipped over making her way onto the stage, she managed to pull it back and put on a great show. We also just missed out on the pool party at the main swimming pool which has recently reopened after a major leak, but we heard it was a great laugh.
Our bottomless brunch on Saturday was full of food, drinks and funny moments with groups of friends, stag dos and hen dos all having a good time. The Butlin's On The Beach cocktails were flowing and a DJ kept everyone entertained for the whole two hours with music and activities. The lively brunch culminated in a lap-dancing competition which was quite the sight. And I think that's all I can say on that one.
One of the highlights of the trip was staying in a new Maple Walk premium lodge. It was tucked away from the lively main resort which gave us a chance to recharge in what felt like a completely different place altogether. The lodge itself was modern and clean and had everything you need. I'd definitely recommend forking out a bit extra to stay in one if you appreciate the peace and quiet every now and then. The parking spaces at each lodge are very handy too.
We had premium dining during our stay and we quickly realised that we were never going to go hungry. It gives you access to two different buffet restaurants for both breakfast and dinner and is the perfect hangover cure after a heavy night. One restaurant also had cooking stations where chefs would make you a range of dishes to order, from an omelette at breakfast to a double cheeseburger at dinner.
The Big Weekender felt like a real throwback to my time as a student. It was carefree, full of great music and proved that adults are still allowed to party, even if we are all getting older. It's not your typical weekend away but if you're up for a laugh, some nostalgia and making some lifelong memories with friends, it's well worth checking out.
Tickets are now on sale for Butlin's Big Weekenders next year, including as early as January, February and March from £79. To find out more and to book go to www.bigweekends.com.